Army's allure increases with war

Army's allure increases with war

Some Army recruiting centres are busier since the war began

Since the war in Iraq began a week ago, the Army Careers Centre in Norwich has received an extra 40 enquiries.

Sergeant Ian Burton, an Army careers advisor, said: "Obviously we get more people than usual coming through the door at this moment in time.

"But what people have to understand is that the majority of our time is taken up with humanitarian and peacekeeping tasks."

After applicants turn in a form, they must endure two interviews, an intelligence test, a two day selection weekend with leadership exercises, physical challenges, a full medical, and yet another interview.

Joseph Aibumbu listens to an Army recruiter

At that point, about half of the applicants find they have been accepted.

People in Northampton have also recently shown more interest in joining the Army.

Sergeant Ian Edwards said those who sign up for the Army now will not necessarily take a trip to Iraq.

He said: "It starts off with phase one training, which takes approximately 14 weeks, then they go on to phase two training, which again, could be up to 14 weeks.

"The whole period of training could be up to six to nine months."

A new soldier will earn about £10,500 a year and must commit for a four-year tour of duty.